WROUGHT IRONWORK & RESTORATION: In the creation of historic ornamental wrought ironwork, exceptional skill was demanded from the smiths of the time. Quality restoration of such work demands like for like materials and mastery of the original techniques. Chris Topp & Co has over 30 years experience of the conservation or restoration of historic wrought and cast ironwork. We pride ourselves in having the biggest workshop in the country consisting of fully trained smiths with similar skills to those of the 18th and 19th centuries, for example wrought iron worked at the anvil by forge welding techniques. Our blacksmiths are also fully conversant with the materials used and their properties i.e. puddled and charcoal wrought iron as well as cast iron.

CAST IRONWORK: Much 19th C work comprises cast ironwork and this is a material also covered by our expertise, requiring a different set of skills, which we have in house and also in long association with skilled patternmakers and founders.

ADVICE & SPECIFICATION: Good results depend on comprehensive specification as heritage ironwork is a specialist field. Through our website www.christopp.co.uk we offer information and advice on the conservation and restoration of historic ironwork as, unlike most other crafts in the heritage field, there is little available guidance. Our aim is to help preserve an important part of our heritage by assisting those engaged in the maintenance of heritage buildings, and interested members of the public to;

- Distinguish between genuine Wrought Iron and the many ‘other iron’ and steel products often mistaken for Wrought Iron.

- Understand why and when Wrought Iron is the correct material to use

- Specify the correct techniques for the restoration and conservation of ironwork thereby ensuring appropriate repairs and like-for-like quotations.

This information is frequently used by conservation architects and specifiers especially on listed properties.

TRADITIONAL SKILLS OVER 30YEARS EXPERIENCE COMPETITIVE PRICES

To look at some of our restoration projects just click on the pictures below